The Dodgy Contract Scam – Why Rogue Builders Avoid Written Agreements

How the Scam Works

It starts friendly and informal.
They’ll tell you contracts “slow things down” or that “paperwork isn’t needed for small jobs.”

Then, once work begins:

Prices change without warning
Deadlines shift endlessly
Promised materials “weren’t included”
And when you complain — they walk, leaving you with no proof and no leg to stand on

No paperwork means no accountability.

Why They Hate Contracts

A proper contract locks in:
✅ What’s included in the job
✅ Payment stages and timelines
✅ Responsibility for Building Control and compliance
✅ Agreed standards and guarantees

When it’s written down, it’s evidence.
When it’s not, it’s your word against theirs — and guess who loses?

🚩 “We’ll sort the paperwork later.”
🚩 “It’s just a small job, no need for a contract.”
🚩 “Don’t worry — we’ll handle it on trust.”
🚩 No company letterhead, no logo, no signatures.

If they resist putting it in writing, they’re planning to twist the deal.

How to Protect Yourself

✅ Always insist on a written contract before work begins.
✅ List everything — scope, materials, payment schedule, start and finish dates.
✅ Keep copies of every quote, invoice, and message.
✅ Only use verified builders through Check A Builder, where real businesses are listed and insured.

A genuine builder will welcome a contract — it protects them as much as you.